Author reading of 'The Day I Made the Sky Smile' at Morristown and Morris Twp. Library

Children’s author Lashone Murphy will do a reading from her children’s book: "The Day I Made the Sky Smile" as part of a special story time in the Children’s Room of the Morristown & Morris Township Library at 11 a.m., on Saturday, Aug. 9.

"The Day I Made the Sky Smile" tells the story of Savannah, who is ‘almost 10’ and her quest to find where she fits in her family and the world. Although it’s a fictional tale, the images of Savannah and her older brother Kenny are based on real siblings from the Neighborhood House, where Lashone works.

“It’s important for children to know that we all have a gift,” says Lashone. “Just because your friends are good at something that you’re not, you can’t give up. You have to keep searching. It’s important for youth to know they have a gift, and they should have good self-esteem, and they should inspire other kids.”

The program is supported by the Friends of the Morristown & Morris Township Library.

Murphy was born in Newark. She loves working with youth and looks forward to making a difference in their lives every day. She has been working with children for over fifteen years now in a variety of capacities; as a teacher, camp counselor, coordinator, and director.

Most recently, Lashone was inspired to write her first children's book, "The Day I Made the Sky Smile." She was inspired to write a story with a positive message which would impact the lives of her targeted young audience. The book also includes one of Lashone's passions, dance. As a new author, Lashone has become more focused on writing and exploring new ideas for future book projects. Lashone is a graduate of Kean University and currently works at Morristown Neighborhood House.